The Pisan Hills on a Vespa

The Pisan Hills are a place off the beaten tourist track, where art, history and the natural landscape have coexisted in harmony for centuries. The short distances, the gentle hills, and the tranquillity of the rural villages invite you to take a slow trip, ideal for Vespa enthusiasts, along the Strada del Vino delle Colline Pisane (Wine Route of the Pisan Hills), among the landscapes that inspired the paintings of the Macchiaioli.

Departure from Lari

We have assumed that you will start from Lari, the end point of another Vespa itinerary. If you haven’t done so yet, climb the steps to the Castello dei Vicari. From here you will enjoy a magnificent view of the hills and the small villages nearby.

Fauglia, Crespina and Lorenzana

From Lari we head towards Fauglia, and then on to the territory of Crespina Lorenzana.

In Fauglia, a stroll through the narrow streets of the centre will provide you with enchanting views and will eventually lead you to the Giorgio Kienerk Museum, located in the premises of the old judicial prisons in Via Chiostra. A beautiful collection of over 130 works by the artist belonging to the ‘Postmacchiaioli’ current.

Fauglia, as well as Crespina and Lorenzana were – in the 18th and 19th centuries – places of residence for noble Tuscan families. The rural landscapes modelled for centuries by the hand of the peasants were a source of inspiration for the famous Macchiaioli current. You will understand this by stopping at Lorenzana, where you can have lunch while admiring the panorama.

In Crespina, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Pepi Museum Houses of the critic and collector Carlo Pepi.

Orciano Pisano and Santa Luce

Here you enter the characteristic landscape of the Pisan Hills, characterised by rolling hills that alternate various colours depending on the season. On board a Vespa, one can enjoy a truly breathtaking panorama. It is no coincidence that the road from Lorenzana to Orciano Pisano (the smallest municipality in the province of Pisa) to Santa Luce is among the most photographed in Tuscany.

The best season is between June and July, when you can admire the lavender blooming in the fields along the road near Pieve di Santa Luce.

The area is dotted with rural villages that hide unexpected surprises, such as the Buddhist institute in Pomaia (we recommend you visit it), the nature reserve Lago di Santa Luce (a birdwatcher’s paradise) and the Alabaster Ecomuseum of Santa Luce. It is worth stopping at the Cooperativa Produttori Agricoli Pieve di Santa Luce to buy Terra di Luce brand products.